AUSTRALIANS should be proud that five of our universities are among the best 100 in the world in the latest Academic Ranking of World Universities. The University of Melbourne, which has moved up 22 places in five years to number 57 under vice-chancellor Glyn Davis, was the star performer.
The geographic spread of other universities in the top 100 is reassuring for students, with the Australian National University ranked 64, the University of Queensland 90, the University of Sydney 93 and the University of Western Australia 96.
If the sector is to build on its success, the government and institutions should guard against the lowering of in pursuit of the Bradley inquiry’s target that at least 40% of 25- to 34-year-olds should hold a bachelor or higher degree by 2020. "Inclusiveness" must not become a euphemism for mediocrity.
Sydney, August 16
Post a comment